Walton Hall and Gardens: A Historic Cheshire Estate and Family Attraction
Historic Walton Hall and Gardens blend Cheshire heritage with family-friendly attractions in a scenic, welcoming parkland setting.
Walton Hall and Gardens, located in Higher Walton near Warrington, Cheshire, is a historic country estate once owned by the Greenall brewing family. Built between 1836 and 1838 in Neo-Elizabethan style and later expanded, the estate features beautifully maintained gardens, a children’s zoo, adventure golf, and a heritage café. Now a public park managed by Warrington Borough Council, it offers a rich blend of history, nature, and family-friendly activities.
A brief summary to Walton Hall and Gardens
- Walton Lea Rd, Warrington, Higher Walton, WA4 6SN, GB
- +441925262908
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Heritage Café for refreshments after exploring the gardens and zoo.
- Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully enjoy the gardens and outdoor activities.
- Explore the children’s zoo and adventure golf for a fun family experience.
- Check seasonal floral displays to catch the gardens at their most vibrant.
- Take time to appreciate the architectural details of Walton Hall, including the clock tower.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Bus Combination
Take a train to Warrington Bank Quay or Warrington Central from nearby cities such as Manchester or Liverpool (travel time 25–50 minutes). From Warrington town center, catch bus service 100 or 101 towards Higher Walton; the journey takes approximately 20 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, with a single fare around £3–£5.
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Car Travel
Driving from Warrington town center to Walton Hall and Gardens takes about 15–20 minutes via local roads. Free parking is available on-site. Note that traffic can increase during weekends and holidays. The route is suitable for all vehicles with no special access requirements.
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Cycling
For active travelers, cycling from Warrington town center to Walton Hall and Gardens takes approximately 40–50 minutes along mostly flat terrain. Cycle paths and quiet roads are available, making it a pleasant ride. Secure bike parking is provided at the gardens.
Walton Hall and Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Walton Hall and Gardens
A Legacy of the Greenall Family and Walton Hall's Architecture
Walton Hall and Gardens trace their origins to 1812 when Edward Greenall, from the renowned Greenall brewing family, purchased the estate. The current Walton Hall was constructed between 1836 and 1838, commissioned by Gilbert Greenall and designed by architect Edmund Sharpe in a Neo-Elizabethan style. The hall originally featured stone-dressed brown brick, graded slate roofs, symmetrical garden fronts with bay windows, and distinctive crowstep gables. In the late 1860s, the hall was expanded with Gothic Revival wings and a clock tower, adding to its architectural grandeur. Though some extensions were demolished in the 1970s, a new wing was added in 2013, maintaining the estate’s historic charm.The Gardens and Grounds: From Private Estate to Public Park
Once part of a vast 7,000-acre estate, much of the land was leased to tenant farmers during the Greenalls’ ownership. The gardens, a source of pride for the family, were opened to the public in 1930 and have since evolved into a cherished community space. Today, the gardens showcase a variety of floral displays, glasshouses, a courtyard with a vinery, and well-kept green spaces ideal for picnics and outdoor games. The estate also includes a pitch and putt golf course, blending leisure and natural beauty in a quintessential English countryside setting.Family-Friendly Attractions and Amenities
Walton Hall and Gardens provide a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages. The children’s zoo offers an engaging experience with a variety of animals, while adventure golf and outdoor play areas add fun and excitement. The Heritage Café serves refreshments daily, enhancing the visitor experience. The estate also houses a cycle museum and offers free parking, making it a convenient destination for families and groups seeking a day out immersed in nature and history.Historical Significance and Wartime Role
The estate’s history is intertwined with the Greenall family’s prominence in brewing and politics, with Sir Gilbert Greenall serving as a Member of Parliament and later becoming Baron Daresbury. During World War II, Walton Hall was requisitioned to billet officers, and the grounds supported military activities. After the war, in 1945, the gardens reopened to the public and have remained accessible ever since, managed by Warrington Borough Council, which purchased the hall and parkland in 1941.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Walton Hall and Gardens can enjoy a tranquil and scenic environment that combines historic architecture with lush gardens and recreational facilities. The estate’s blend of heritage and family-friendly attractions creates a welcoming atmosphere for relaxation, exploration, and cultural appreciation. Seasonal floral displays and well-maintained grounds offer year-round appeal, while the clock tower and hall provide iconic visual highlights.Ongoing Legacy and Community Role
Walton Hall and Gardens continue to serve as a vital cultural and recreational hub for the Warrington area. The estate hosts weddings, corporate events, and community gatherings, preserving its role as a landmark of local heritage. Its management by the council ensures sustainable care of the grounds, balancing public access with conservation. The estate’s rich history, combined with its modern amenities, makes it a unique destination that honors its past while engaging present-day visitors.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Warrington Transporter Bridge
2.5 km
Explore the world’s only rail transporter bridge, a striking industrial landmark spanning the River Mersey, embodying Warrington’s rich heritage.
The Golden Gates
3.0 km
Victorian ironwork masterpiece with royal rejection and industrial heritage.
Norton Water Tower
5.8 km
A majestic Victorian water tower in Runcorn, blending historic engineering with enduring utility and striking red sandstone architecture.
The Sankey Viaduct (Nine Arches)
10.1 km
Discover the stunning Sankey Viaduct in Leigh, a masterpiece of Victorian engineering featuring breathtaking views and rich historical significance.
Sussex Road
12.8 km
Discover the charm of Cadishead at Sussex Road, your convenient gateway to local attractions and the vibrant culture of Manchester.
Taylor Park
14.3 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Taylor Park in Saint Helens, a perfect destination for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Eleanor Rigby Gravesite
17.8 km
Visit the poignant gravesite of Eleanor Rigby, the real-life inspiration behind The Beatles’ haunting song, nestled in historic Woolton churchyard.
Knutsford Obelisk
17.9 km
An 18th-century memorial obelisk honoring the Legh family, standing as a historic symbol amidst Knutsford’s rich heritage.
Sussex Close
19.6 km
Discover the charm of Wigan through Sussex Close, your essential bus stop to explore local attractions and immerse in the vibrant culture.
Trencherfield Mill
20.1 km
Explore the rich industrial heritage of Wigan at Trencherfield Mill, a historical museum showcasing the grandeur of steam technology and textile history.
Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre
20.2 km
Discover the enchanting Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre in Tarporley, where majestic Shire horses and serene countryside create unforgettable family memories.
Barton Swing Aqueduct
20.8 km
Explore the world’s only swing aqueduct, a Victorian engineering marvel carrying the Bridgewater Canal over the Manchester Ship Canal since 1894.
LEGOLAND Discovery Centre
20.9 km
Discover the wonders of creativity and imagination at LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Manchester, an exciting indoor attraction for families and LEGO lovers.
National Waterways Museum Ellesmere Port
20.9 km
Explore the National Waterways Museum in Ellesmere Port, where Britain's canal history unfolds through fascinating exhibits and scenic waterways.
St Barnabas Penny Lane
20.9 km
Historic church on iconic Penny Lane, blending Beatles heritage with vibrant community music and remembrance.
Unmissable attractions to see
Manchester Ship Canal
0.9 km
A monumental Victorian waterway that transformed Manchester into Britain’s third busiest port, linking industry and ocean trade 40 miles inland.
Moore Nature Reserve
2.2 km
Explore nearly 200 acres of restored natural beauty and diverse wildlife at Moore Nature Reserve in Warrington, a tranquil haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
River Mersey
2.9 km
The River Mersey: Liverpool’s historic tidal estuary, offering iconic waterfront views, ferry crossings, and a deep connection to the city’s maritime soul.
Warrington Museum & Art Gallery
2.9 km
Explore Victorian charm and global treasures in Warrington’s historic museum and art gallery, where culture and community come alive.
Lewis Carroll Centre
3.0 km
Discover the enchanting world of Lewis Carroll at All Saints Church, Daresbury, where literary history meets serene village charm.
Grappenhall Heys Walled Garden
3.2 km
A peaceful 19th-century walled garden near Warrington, where ornamental ponds, kitchen plots, and Victorian glasshouses create a timeless green escape.
Lewis Carroll Centenary Wood
4.8 km
A peaceful woodland sanctuary near Warrington celebrating Lewis Carroll’s legacy with nature trails, memorial oaks, and serene rural charm.
Gulliver's World Theme Park
5.0 km
A vibrant, family-friendly theme park in Warrington with rides, shows, and historic heritage for children aged 2 to 13.
Norton Priory Museum & Gardens
5.6 km
Explore Europe’s most excavated monastic site with medieval ruins, a stunning Georgian walled garden, and 900 years of rich history in tranquil woodland.
Wigg Island
7.6 km
A reclaimed industrial island turned vibrant nature reserve offering scenic walks, rich wildlife, and iconic Mersey views in Runcorn.
Dutton Locks
8.3 km
Historic Victorian locks on the tranquil River Weaver offering scenic walks, rich heritage, and wildlife in Cheshire’s countryside.
Lymm Heritage Centre (Legh St)
8.5 km
Explore Lymm’s vibrant local history and traditions in this welcoming village heritage centre with interactive exhibits and community spirit.
Arley Hall & Gardens
8.5 km
Explore Arley Hall & Gardens: historic Victorian charm meets spectacular botanical artistry in Cheshire’s serene countryside.
Spike Island
8.5 km
A serene riverside park in Widnes offering flat walking trails, vibrant wildlife, and a welcoming café in a unique artificial island setting.
Lymm Cross
8.6 km
Discover the historical charm of Lymm Cross, an iconic landmark nestled in the scenic village of Lymm, England, steeped in rich local heritage.
Essential places to dine
Spirit Restaurant & Lounge
3.3 km
Elegant contemporary British dining and versatile event venue set in the tranquil surroundings of Victoria Park, Warrington.
Cock O’ Budworth
9.2 km
Historic 400-year-old coaching inn with cosy snugs, open fires, and classic British fare in the heart of Great Budworth village.
La Boheme
10.8 km
A long-standing French bistro in Lymm serving rich, traditional dishes in a relaxed, unpretentious setting.
Restaurant Next Door
11.2 km
Intimate modern British dining in a historic 17th-century timber-framed building with seasonal, locally sourced menus and expert wine pairings.
The English Restaurant
12.8 km
Classic British chippy in Northwich serving hearty fish and chips with warm, friendly service in a casual setting.
Vale Royal Abbey Arms
16.9 km
Traditional Cheshire pub serving hearty British fare with vegan options, cozy fires, and friendly service in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Goshawk
16.9 km
Historic 19th-century coaching inn in Cheshire offering seasonal British fare, quality cask ales, family-friendly amenities, and a welcoming countryside atmosphere.
The Fishpool Inn
17.7 km
A warm, family-friendly gastropub in Northwich blending rustic charm with modern British cuisine and a scenic beer garden.
Bells of Peover
17.9 km
Historic Cheshire gastropub blending rustic charm with fresh, seasonal dining in a picturesque countryside setting near Knutsford.
Dun Cow
19.3 km
A charming family-run gastropub near Knutsford offering hearty British classics and quality ales in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Chester Fields Country Pub, Restaurant & Wedding Venue
20.4 km
Discover The Chester Fields: A charming gastropub offering locally sourced cuisine and a picturesque setting perfect for dining or celebrating special occasions.
Gallimore's Fine Restaurant
20.6 km
Contemporary British dining in Wigan’s historic town centre, offering quality menus in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Gustum Bar & Restaurant
20.8 km
A vibrant grill and Mediterranean restaurant on Liverpool’s Rose Lane, blending bold flavors with warm hospitality in a lively urban setting.
5 Fifty Bistro
20.8 km
A cozy, intimate bistro on Aigburth Road serving refined European-inspired dishes in a warm, welcoming setting.
The Wheel Restaurant
20.9 km
Experience award-winning, student-prepared cuisine in a warm, welcoming setting at Wigan’s unique Wheel Restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Assortment Boutique Fashion and Home
3.3 km
A charming boutique in Warrington blending unique women's fashion with quirky homewares for a personalized shopping experience.
Cheshire & Hampton Vintage Emporiums @ Lady heyes (SHOPS)
11.4 km
Explore timeless treasures and vintage charm at Cheshire & Hampton Vintage Emporiums nestled in the heart of Lady Heyes, Frodsham.
Twisted Earth
12.5 km
Discover gothic, hippy, and rock-inspired gifts and fashion at Twisted Earth, Northwich’s premier alternative shop.
Cocaranti I Premium Womenswear Cheshire
16.5 km
Discover unique, premium womenswear in Knutsford’s charming independent boutique blending style, sustainability, and personalized service.
Quirky Cute Boutique
17.4 km
Discover vintage charm and handmade fashion treasures at Altrincham’s creative hotspot, The Quirky Cute Boutique.
The Penny Lane Shopping Centre
21.0 km
Explore The Penny Lane Shopping Centre in Liverpool—your gateway to unique shops, delightful cafés, and the local culture of this iconic city.
Penny Lane Emporium
21.1 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and antiques in a warm, nostalgic setting at Liverpool’s Penny Lane Emporium.
Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks
21.4 km
Explore a shopper's paradise at Designer Outlet Cheshire Oaks, featuring top designer brands, unbeatable deals, and delightful dining options.
Coliseum Shopping Park
21.6 km
Coliseum Shopping Park: Your ultimate shopping destination in Ellesmere Port with diverse stores, dining, and family-friendly entertainment.
The Port Arcades Shopping Centre
21.9 km
A central shopping hub in Ellesmere Port offering diverse stores and a traditional market in a covered, accessible setting.
LOLA | Clothes shop in Tarporley
22.8 km
Discover timeless, ethical ladies’ fashion and accessories in the heart of Tarporley’s charming High Street.
Stitch
22.9 km
Discover Tarporley’s premier craft boutique offering quality yarns, sewing supplies, and expert knitting workshops in a charming village setting.
Larks
22.9 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, gifts, and homeware in a vibrant, bohemian shop nestled in Liverpool’s iconic Lark Lane.
Number 13
22.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Number 13, a welcoming boutique on Liverpool’s vibrant Lark Lane.
Lark Lane Gallery
23.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local art in the heart of Liverpool’s bohemian Lark Lane at Lark Lane Gallery.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bold Street House
3.0 km
A lively cocktail bar and coffee shop in Warrington offering expertly crafted drinks, delicious food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Salty Dog
12.6 km
A lively, dog-friendly pub in Northwich offering great beer, live music, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Lost & Found Knutsford
16.5 km
A stylish bar and pub in historic Knutsford blending vibrant atmosphere with contemporary dining and drinks.
Cheshire Tap
16.8 km
Discover Cheshire Tap, Altrincham’s cozy craft beer bar with top local ales, a lively atmosphere, and a spacious garden retreat.
Fox & Barrel
19.4 km
Charming Cheshire country pub offering exceptional British fare, a welcoming atmosphere, and scenic beer garden in Cotebrook near Tarporley.
Little Fifteen
20.6 km
Stylish wine bar and Italian restaurant in Wigan, blending vibrant atmosphere with classic design and a curated wine selection.
The Wiend Bar
20.6 km
Energetic cocktail bar and nightclub in Wigan offering strong drinks, vibrant DJ sets, and a lively atmosphere for late-night socializing.
Under the oak bar
21.5 km
Cozy bar retreat in Ellesmere Port’s Cheshire Oaks, blending local ales, live music, and a friendly atmosphere for shoppers and visitors alike.
Sherringtons Bar
21.7 km
A welcoming and lively bar in Wigan offering great drinks and a cozy atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Waggon & Horses
22.9 km
A lively traditional British pub in Westhoughton offering hearty fare, well-kept beers, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Dockyard
23.7 km
Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.
SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Media City
23.7 km
Craft beer haven in MediaCityUK: house-brewed IPAs, pizzas, and lively vibes await at Seven Bro7hers' Salford outpost, perfect for post-work pints or casual hangs.
Craftbrew
23.8 km
Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.
11 Central
23.8 km
Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.
Matchstick Man
24.3 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Babylon Retro Bar
3.0 km
Dive into Warrington’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic 80s and 90s tunes at Babylon Retro Bar, your weekend hotspot for music and fun.
Reflex & Babylon
3.0 km
Experience Warrington’s vibrant nightlife at Reflex & Babylon, a lively nightclub and bar blending energetic music with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Establishment
8.6 km
A vibrant Widnes nightclub offering lively events, friendly staff, and a spacious venue for unforgettable nights out.
Ibiza Nightclub
20.4 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Ibiza Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable Saturday nights come alive until dawn.
Pure Nightclub
20.5 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Pure Nightclub, where energetic beats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night memories come alive every Saturday.
Mandy & Graham’s
24.6 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Mandy & Graham’s, where pulsating beats and lively crowds create unforgettable party nights.
Underground
25.0 km
Experience classic rave vibes and late-night energy at Underground, Bolton’s intimate clubbing hotspot in Farnworth.
The Blue Angel Nightclub
25.2 km
Liverpool's dingy dive for 60s rock legends, dirt-cheap drinks, and sweaty throwback dances—where The Beatles once rocked and students still rage till dawn.
Cool It
25.3 km
A multi-level, student-friendly nightclub on Seel Street offering loud DJ nights, bargain entry and packed late‑night dancefloors.
Pure Nightlounge
25.3 km
Liverpool’s boutique R&B nightspot with VIP booths, tight dancefloor energy and a late-night, fashion-forward vibe.
Heebie Jeebies
25.3 km
Liverpool's eclectic nightlife heart: multi-level bar, live music basement, courtyard hangs, and anthemic nights until dawn on Seel Street.
EBGBS
25.3 km
Liverpool's gritty basement nightclub where live indie gigs, craft cocktails, and underground vibes fuel epic nights until 4am in the heart of Seel Street.
BrooklynMixer
25.3 km
Liverpool's original R&B haven on Seel Street: three floors of hip-hop beats, craft cocktails, leather lounges, and private party vibes from dusk till dawn.
Ink Bar Liverpool
25.4 km
Liverpool's premier R&B and house nightclub, where stylish cocktails, thumping beats, and luxury vibes fuel unforgettable nights on Wood Street.
Aura
25.4 km
Dive into Liverpool's pulsating beats at Aura Nightclub, where Afrobeats and R&B fuel intimate, high-energy nights in Ropewalks' vibrant core.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly